Assessment of the Impacts of N-Power on the Youths’ Economic Survival in Ondo State From 2019 To 2023

This study assessed the impact of the N-Power Programme on the economic survival of youth beneficiaries in Ondo State, Nigeria, between 2019 and 2023. The study examined the extent to which the programme contributed to youth empowerment, improved beneficiaries' economic well-being, and alleviated poverty, while also identifying the major challenges associated with its implementation. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The study targeted registered N-Power beneficiaries across the three senatorial districts of Ondo State. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select respondents from nine local government areas. A total of 400 structured questionnaires were administered, of which 386 were returned, while 380 valid questionnaires were used for analysis. Primary data were collected through questionnaires, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, while secondary data were obtained from textbooks, journal articles, government publications, and other relevant documents. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, and mean scores, whereas qualitative data obtained from interviews and focus group discussions were analysed using thematic content analysis. The findings revealed that the N-Power Programme made a positive contribution to the economic survival of beneficiaries through temporary employment opportunities, income support, and skills acquisition. However, respondents identified irregular payment of stipends, inadequate funding, political interference, limited opportunities for permanent employment, and policy inconsistency as major constraints affecting the programme's effectiveness. The study concludes that although the N-Power Programme has contributed significantly to youth empowerment and poverty reduction in Ondo State, its long-term sustainability depends on improved implementation strategies and stronger institutional support. The study recommends timely payment of stipends, enhanced transparency in beneficiary selection, expansion of entrepreneurship and post-programme support initiatives, and the development of sustainable employment pathways for beneficiaries.

N-Power Programme; Youth Empowerment; Economic Survival; Poverty Reduction; Youth Unemployment; Ondo State

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